Slider Automated Surface Rotation Control System

The Slider automated surface rotation control system is aimed at significantly increasing the efficiency of the downhole motor and MWD directional system—over 250% in some cases—during the drilling of directional and horizontal wells. The system works by imposing a rocking motion (oscillatory movements to the right and left) from the top drive during sliding operations to steer the BHA. It uses torque readings at surface (and sometimes downhole) as feedback to an automated system to control the rocking movement. No additional downhole equipment is used.

Significant improvement in sliding efficiency and ROP

As well profiles become more complex, they produce higher torque and drag. Moreover, the downhole toolface orientation becomes harder to obtain. The Slider system is able to handle more challenging wells by using the new torque-rocking technology during sliding, which enables the maximum amount of drag reduction while accurately controlling the downhole toolface. This is achieved without pulling the bit off bottom and greatly enhances ROP. The system also enables steering of the downhole motor in any direction without interrupting the drilling process and works with any BHA, including bicenter bits.

Advantages

The Slider automated system is interfaced with the rig’s pipe rotation system—all common top drives, power swivels, and rotary tables can be accommodated. It provides the following advantages in the sliding mode:

• Increased ROP and reach capability by sensing the amount of surface torque needed to transfer the proper amount of weight to the bit (i.e., automated rocking, using torque as an input).
• Smoother weight transfer to the bit, which increases bit life.
• On-bottom toolface correction through a unique torque-pulse method (bumping) in the drillstring. For longer horizontal sections, this could save a 1/2 hour or more per orientation attempt.
• Improved well trajectory through a step change in toolface correction while on bottom. 
• The ability to increase the length of the horizontal section with reduced tortuosity, which can lead to increased production.
• Increased motor life, as stalling is significantly decreased (practically eliminated), leading to fewer trips.
• Use of less mud additives for lubricity enhancement since surface rocking torque is used to overcome friction.
• Opportunity for directional drillers to focus on data trends and other critical issues instead of trying to control the rocking manually.

Experienced personnel are available to rig up and assist during drilling. The operator’s directional drillers are trained on the Slider technology using a directional drilling simulator. 

Incorporating the system into the well planning process will allow you to realize the full savings it offers. For instance, recognizing the potential of the Slider system to assist in drilling more complex wells at a reduced risk means more marginal wells can be added to the drilling program, increasing production and proven reserves.